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Avoiding Latex

You have latex allergy. This means you’re sensitive to natural rubber latex. When you’re exposed to latex, your body’s immune system views it as a harmful substance and attacks it. In severe cases, this can cause symptoms that can threaten your life if not treated. The best way to prevent symptoms is to avoid latex. Below are some tips on how to do this.

Common products that contain latex

Latex can be found in many products. Protect yourself by not using these products, if possible. Some common products that contain latex include:

Note: Some latex products, such as gloves, may be lined with powder. This powder can send latex particles into the air. If these particles are breathed in, this can cause symptoms.

Safe substitutes for latex

Many products that contain latex have safe substitutes. The following products can be used in place of latex ones:

Powder-less, synthetic (nonlatex) or vinyl gloves

Mylar, vinyl, or plastic balloons

Polyurethane or sheepskin condoms (note that sheepskin condoms do not prevent the spread of STDs such as HIV)

Silicone diaphragms

Latex-free bandages

Latex-free rubber bands

Bath mats and rugs with vinyl or foam backings

Silicone, vinyl, or plastic feeding nipples and pacifiers

Plastic or cloth toys

Other tips

Not everyone reacts in the same way to the same latex products. Gloves, balloons, and condoms cause symptoms most often. Even if your symptoms are mild, you should still avoid exposure to any latex products. This is because your allergy can worsen with increased exposure to latex.

Be on the lookout for hidden latex. For instance, when you eat out, ask whether they use latex gloves to handle or prepare food. Also, when you go to your dentist or doctor’s office, hair salon, or florist, ask whether they use latex gloves.

Read labels before using any products to make sure they are latex-free.

Certain foods contain proteins that are like the proteins found in latex. These foods include bananas, kiwis, and avocados. If you have a latex allergy, it’s common to also have an allergy to these foods. Ask your healthcare provider whether you should remove any of these foods from your diet.